Murray Goodwin to return to the WACA

Former WA player Murray Goodwin will return to Perth after re-signing with the WACA overnight.

The right-handed batsman last played for WA in season 1996-97 before joining Zimbabwe and making his mark on international cricket. The 27-year-old, who has played 19 Tests for Zimbabwe and is currently on tour in England, sights personal reasons for his decision.

"I have spoken to the Zimbabwe Cricket Union who understand my decision," said Goodwin.

"I am grateful for the opportunity that they have given me to play international cricket and I have given the decision a great deal of thought.

But I feel the future for myself and my wife will be best served by returning to Perth."

Goodwin will represent Zimbabwe in the coming NatWest one-day series against England and the West Indies before returning to Perth in August.

In his last season in the west Goodwin scored 428 runs at 61.14 in five Sheffield Shield matches and was a member of WA's Mercantile Mutual Cup winning team.

Western Warriors all-rounder Kade Harvey (24), currently playing with Stenhousemuir in the Scottish Premier League, has also re-signed for 2000-2001.

In compliance with ACB guidelines, the WACA has now filled 18 state player contracts by June 30, 2000.